Mitch Marner reveals the real reason he left the Maple Leafs.

The decision made by former Toronto Maple Leafs star forward Mitch Marner this summer is one that will no doubt be discussed for years to come, with Marner making the decision to leave his hometown team and sign long-term with the Vegas Golden Knights.

It is a decision that has generated just about every type of reaction you could imagine from fan and pundits alike, but despite that it remains a decision that many fans still know very little about.

Recently, Marner was asked about what was likely one of the biggest decisions of his life and he opened up about some of the traumatic events that eventually led to him choosing his current path. Marner was asked about some of the threats that had been directed towards him and his family, and his comments on the matter where truly horrifying.

"I get a phone call from my wife's father and he said 'I just want to let you know we have people sending us screenshots of a guy posting your address online. Saying that if people want to come pay us a visit and say their "goodbyes" then here is the address,'" admitted Marner.

It was extremely evident during Marner's response that this remains an emotional and difficult topic for him to speak about publicly, and he admits that it left him feeling like he had little choice in the matter.

"The market is very passionate, they love this team, I know it I was born and raised here and was a part of Leafs Nation for a long time," said Marner. "But when your family's safety comes into question, especially having a new son, I don't think it's acceptable."

It was obvious that Marner is still dealing with the very understandable emotions he has over these incidents, and he provided some additional details that really hammer home why he is still so upset about how it all played out.

"Having full time security at your house for 2 weeks after the playoffs to make sure no one is coming to the house and also the safety of trying to walk your dog with your child, it was a little unfortunate," said a clearly emotional Marner.

I don't think anyone can blame a man for doing what he felt he needed to do to keep his family safe, and it is truly unfortunate that Marner's career as a Maple Leaf came to an end on such a terrible note.